North Dakota House Bill HB1363

North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/25
• Refer: 1/13/25
• Report Pass: 2/18/25
• Engrossed: 2/25/25
• Refer: 3/7/25
• Report Pass: 4/8/25
• Enrolled: 4/29/25
• Passed: 5/2/25

Caption

Cardiac emergency response plans for public and nonpublic schools and athletic events.

Impact

The passage of HB 1363 will have a substantial effect on state laws regarding public health and safety in schools, as it requires the inclusion of emergency cardiac response strategies as part of a broader school crisis management plan. Schools will be obliged to review and update these plans annually, thus fostering greater awareness and preparedness among faculty and staff. Furthermore, this legislation provides certain legal protections for school staff and administrators from liability for actions taken under the emergency response plan, which may encourage proactive implementation of these measures without fear of legal repercussions.

Summary

House Bill 1363 mandates the development and implementation of cardiac emergency response plans in both public and nonpublic schools across North Dakota. This legislation is designed to improve the preparedness of schools in the event of a cardiac arrest situation, particularly during athletic events. The bill outlines specific requirements for the establishment of these plans, including the integration of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on school premises and ensuring all relevant personnel receive proper training in emergency response procedures. The aim is to significantly enhance the tempo of medical response in life-threatening scenarios involving sudden cardiac events in educational settings.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 1363 is largely positive, with widespread support from legislators and educational advocates who recognize the critical importance of equipping schools with the necessary tools to address cardiac emergencies. Proponents argue that such measures can save lives and ensure a safe environment for students during athletic and other school-related activities. However, like with many legislative initiatives, there are concerns regarding the practical aspects of implementation, particularly around financing and ensuring all schools can equitably access AEDs and training programs.

Contention

While the bill has received broad support, notable points of contention have emerged regarding the specifics of implementation, including the availability of funding for AEDs and training. Some critics argue that the requirement may place an undue burden on smaller or underfunded schools, potentially leading to disparities in emergency preparedness across different districts. Deliberations highlighted the need for state support in the form of grants or funding assistance to ensure that all schools can effectively implement the required cardiac emergency response plans and maintain compliance with the new legislation.